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Severe Weather

State and federal assistance for Oklahoma surpasses $70M

Published On: Aug 29 2013 01:53:14 PM CDT

Jeff Kepnes/CNN

Tuesday marks one year since an EF5 tornado ravaged Moore, Okla., on May 20, 2013, killing 24 people -- including seven students at Plaza Towers Elementary school. Take a look back at images from the storm and its immediate aftermath.

OKLAHOMA CITY -

An additional $4.9 million has been approved in federal funding for debris clearance in Oklahoma following the severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding that occurred from May 18 to June 2, bringing the total amount of assistance brought to Oklahoma to $70 million.

More than $14.2 million in disaster assistance for housing and disaster-related expenses has been approved for qualified homeowners and renters. This includes more than $9.7 million in rental costs and house repairs and more than $4.4 million for medical expenses, replacement clothing, vehicle repairs, funeral and burial costs and other needs generated by the storms.

“Debris removal after disasters of this magnitude can be a daunting task. Oklahoma appreciates the opportunity to be part of this pilot program," said State Coordinating Officer and Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management Deputy Director Michelann Ooten.

As of Aug. 29, more than 1 million cubic yards of disaster debris had been cleared in Oklahoma -- roughly 96 percent of the estimated total of 1.2 milion cubic yards generated by the storms.

“Anytime we can test a pilot program and provide financial incentives at the same time is a win-win for all,” said federal coordinating officer Sandy Coachman.

The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved more than $43.6 million in low-interest disaster loans for qualified homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations in Oklahoma.